Geographic Information System Analyst I

THIS RECRUITMENT IS OPEN TO PERMANENT OR PROBATIONARY PLACER COUNTY EMPLOYEES ONLY. 

Interdepartment Transfer/Voluntary Demotion Eligibility Criteria:

• Currently a permanent or probationary Geographic Information System Analyst I.
                                   OR
• Currently a permanent or probationary county employee with an equivalent salary to Grade 226*.
• The difference between Step 5 of your current salary grade and Step 5 of Grade 226 is less than 5%, or at any hourly rate above Grade 226 and willing to voluntarily demote.
                                   AND
• Meet the minimum qualifications of the classification.

* Salary Schedule/Grades can be found at V:\Personnel\Salary and Allocation Information.

The current vacancy is based in the Auburn area.  The ideal candidate will have thorough knowledge of GIS concepts and best practices and posses the ability to perform moderate to complex spatial analysis using existing or new data, LIDAR and digital elevation models, develop web-based GIS application for internal and public access to GIS information utilizing ArcGIS server, Flex programming language and HTML and develop custom scripts to enhance productivity utilizing python scripting language.

To meet the minimum qualifications for the Bachelor's degree other related fields would include Information Technology and Geography.

To plan, develop, organize and maintain the technical geographic information system, including editing and system analysis; to produce a wide variety of maps, reports and other projects; to develop, operate and maintain the geographic information system database, software and hardware; to perform analytical modeling with a wide range of software capabilities and; and to perform a variety of technical tasks relative to assigned area of responsibility.

This is the entry-level professional class in the Geographic Information System (GIS) Analyst series.  This class is distinguished from the Geographic Information System Analyst II by the performance of the more routine tasks and duties assigned to positions within this series.  Employees at this level are not expected to perform with the same independence of direction and judgment on matters allocated to the journey level.  Employees work under general supervision while learning job tasks. 

Receives general supervision from an assigned supervisor, and may receive technical and functional supervision from higher level staff. 

Exercises technical and functional supervision over less experienced technical and clerical personnel.

Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Coordinate, implement and update the Geographic Information System (GIS) utilized by County departments.
• Prioritize, assign and review the work of staff involved in the implementation and updating of the Department's GIS.
• Evaluate operations and make strategic recommendations about the GIS program direction and procedure modifications; and develop operating standards and procedures.
• Provide specifications for RFP's and contract documents; recommend selection when employing vendors and consultants.
• Provide special project management functions; and perform related research and interpretations of data.
• Coordinate with Information Technology staff to insure network connections to countywide GIS server; analyze needs; make recommendations; and order, install and upgrade GIS software.
• Design and analyze GIS programming as necessary to accommodate user's needs; and verify accuracy of digitized data using source material to ensure the quality computer automated projects.
• Develop and design databases associated with the GIS base mapping and subsequent map layers.
• Perform advanced processing functions, using established commands and software options, incorporating data from other systems, to create data base files and produce final reports.
• Prepare, code and digitize maps and/or geographic feature data into the GIS computer data base, following pre-established procedures and sequences, to update and create data layers within the system; determine and execute the appropriate sequence of processing tasks in order to appropriately complete a GIS automation assignment.
• Troubleshoot hardware and software problems; provide or recommend appropriate solutions; and keep current on the latest computer hardware and software available for ordering purposes.
• Create original map manuscripts for use as source material in the Geographic Information System (GIS) automation process; and support data base applications.
• Determine and collect relevant data from sources such as aerial photographs, U.S.G.S. maps, parcel maps and field survey notes; and draft original map manuscripts and accurately code manuscripts with attribute data.
• Prepare maps, line drawings, color graphics, charts, graphs, architectural renderings and other documents or materials for use in brochures, reports and presentations to the Board of Supervisors, various commissions or boards and other public agencies.
• Analyze and review mapping and related data prepared by consultants for inclusion in various planning reports.
• Schedule and coordinate GIS user group meetings and other meetings as needed.
• Comply with labor laws and personnel policies; and document and report complaints and incidents in a timely manner.
• Recommend and input to department budget; monitor expenditures; implement GIS budget.
• Recommend disciplinary measures, when necessary; implement discipline procedures as directed; schedule training; and maintain discipline and high standards necessary for the efficient and professional operation of the unit.
• Maintain appropriate confidentiality of sensitive information; and model appropriate professional conduct.
• Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, other County employees and the public using principles of good customer service.
• Represent the unit to outside agencies and organizations; participate in outside community and professional groups and committees; provide technical assistance as necessary.
• Provide technical assistance to others as needed.
• Follow County policies and procedures.
• Attend meetings and training, as directed.
• Work in a safe manner at all times.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

It is the applicant's responsibility to identify in their application materials how they meet the Minimum Qualifications listed below.

Experience: Some professional GIS experience is desirable.

Training: Equivalent to a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college with major course work in planning, cartography, GIS or a related field. Must have completed college-level courses and/or professional training seminars in ESRI applications.

Applicants receiving their degree outside the United States must submit proof of accreditation by a recognized evaluation agency.

License or Certificate:
May need to possess a valid driver's license as required by the position.  Proof of adequate vehicle insurance and medical clearance may also be required.

 Knowledge of:

• Principles and practices of Geographic Information Systems, cartography and engineering drafting including map projections and scales.
• Map drafting procedures, terminology, drafting tools and equipment.
• Algebra, geometry and trigonometry, especially in computation of distances, angles and areas.
• Computer aided drafting and mapping tools and programs, including AutoCAD software, ESRI-based GIS software (ARC/INFO, ArcView, etc.) and its applications and other relevant software, programs and databases and their uses, as well as other computer aided drafting and mapping tools and programs.
• Principles and practices of project management and workflow analysis.
• Process analysis, testing, and troubleshooting/problem solving.
• Flow-charting and technical report writing.
• Modern office procedures, methods and computer equipment.
• Pertinent local, County, State and Federal statutes, laws, ordinances and rules as they apply to personnel requirements and to mapping requirements.
• Principles and practices of leadership, motivation, team building and conflict resolution.
• Methods and practices of prioritization, planning, organization, and delegation.
• Principles and practices of effective customer service.
• Principles and practices of work safety.

Ability to:

• On a continuous basis, know and understand all aspects of the job.  Intermittently analyze work papers, reports and special projects; identify and interpret technical and numerical information; observe drafting and mapping activities and problem solve when appropriate; understand, interpret and explain Department policies and procedures; explain operations and solve problems involving office issues for the public and with staff.
• On a continuous basis, sit at a drafting table or computer station; intermittently stand at counter for long periods of time; twist and reach office equipment; write and use keyboard to communicate through written means; use keyboard to operate design and mapping computer software; visually differentiate between colors on land use maps; and regularly lift weight of 10 pounds or less.
• Use computer aided drafting or mapping equipment.
• Plan, organize, coordinate and prioritize work for self and others.
• Work independently and as a cooperative, contributing member of a team.
• Obtain information through interviews and dialogue; work fairly and courteously with the public; work effectively with interruption.
• Manage multiple projects and priorities.
• Work with various cultural and ethnic groups, customers, co-workers and supervisors in a respectful, tactful and effective manner.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
• Research sources of geographic data and collect, interpret and integrate cartographic data from different sources to prepare map manuscripts and reports.
• Identify characteristics of aerial photographs and interpret complex maps; and prepare maps that require a high degree of cartographic skill, accurately delineating feature locations and boundaries on map manuscripts.
• Analyze and interpret maps; prepare maps accurately delineating feature locations and boundaries on map manuscripts; and troubleshoot and resolve problems.
• Design and develop sequential processing of tasks and perform spatial analysis.
• Make mathematic calculations with speed and accuracy.
• Use engineering drafting and cartographic tools and equipment.
• Operate digitizers, plotters, printers, microfiche reader, scanners copiers and other equipment as needed.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.

Training & Experience Rating (100%)

Based upon responses to the supplemental questionnaire, the applicant’s education, training and experience will be evaluated using a pre-determined formula.  Scores from this evaluation will determine applicant ranking and placement on the eligible list.

Prior to the date of hire, applicants for regular full and part-time positions must pass a medical examination which may include a drug screening and possibly a psychological evaluation. Applicants for extra help positions may be subject to a drug screening. All applicants must sign a constitutional oath, submit proof of U.S. citizenship or legal right to remain and work in the U.S. and be fingerprinted. For some positions, applicants may also be required to submit proof of age, be bonded or undergo a background check.

The eligible list(s) resulting from this recruitment may be certified as a substitute list for a substantially similar classification.  For this purpose, a substantially similar classification is one at a lower level in the same classification (example: entry level vs. journey) and/or a similar classification (similar work performed, similar training and experience qualifications required). If you are contacted for an interview by a County department, you will be informed of the classification and other relevant information. If you choose not to interview for a substantially similar classification, you will remain on the eligible list for which you originally applied.

Thank you for your interest in employment with Placer County. Placer County is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to an active nondiscrimination program. It is the stated policy of Placer County that harassment and retaliation is prohibited and that all employees and applicants shall receive equal consideration and treatment. All recruitment, hiring, transfer and promotion will be based on the qualifications of the individual for the positions being filled regardless of sex, sexual orientation, race, color, ancestry, religious creed, national origin, physical disability (Including HIV and AIDS), mental disability, medical condition (cancer or genetic characteristics/information), age (40 or over), marital status, pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions, or any other classification protected by federal, state or local laws or ordinance. Please contact the Personnel Department at least 5 working days before a scheduled examination if you require accommodation in the examination process. Medical disability verification may be required prior to accommodation.

The following information represents benefits currently available to permanent Placer County employees and may be subject to change.  It is advisable that applicants inquire as to the most current benefit package during hiring interviews or by contacting the Personnel Department.

Click here to view benefits for the Professional Bargain Unit

To be considered for this Interdepartment Transfer/Voluntary Demotion opportunity:

• Click the Special Appointments/Transfers/Reinstatements link here or on the JOBS Employment Opportunities page located at jobsatplacercounty.com. 
• Scroll down to the Interdepartment Transfer/Voluntary Demotion Process section.
• Select the Interdepartment Transfer/Voluntary Demotion (Placer County Employees Only) radio button, and click the Interdepartment Transfer /Voluntary Demotion application link bar.
• Follow the instructions provided to select the classification for which you would like to be considered.
• Select the link "Click here to submit a Special Appointments application for this classification", and complete and submit the on-line application.

Department Contact: Kelly Berger 530-745-3083

Interdepartment Transfer/Voluntary Demotion applications may be submitted anytime, but

TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS RECRUITMENT PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION BY 4/18/2013.